In cooperation with the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), the Great Basin Institute is recruiting a Raptor Survey Field Lead (Field Lead) to assist with surveys of two sensitive raptor species, Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) and California Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis), in the east Lake Tahoe Basin, NV and adjacent areas of the Carson Range. Both of these species are known to occur in the region,  and the goal of this project will be to detect nesting territories and monitor nest success.  The Field Lead and a Raptor Survey Field Technician will coordinate with NDOW on surveys and associated work. The majority of the survey effort will focus on the Northern Goshawk, with some Spotted Owl work interspersed throughout the field season.

Work will include:

• Broadcast surveys for Northern Goshawk and Spotted Owl
• Stand searches for Northern Goshawk and Spotted Owl
• Nest monitoring for Northern Goshawk and Spotted Owl
• Habitat evaluation and vegetation data collection
• Data organization and report write-up
• Aspen stand inventory and mapping (as time allows)
• Assisting with other NDOW wildlife work (as time allows)

The Field Lead must be able to work in difficult terrain that may include steep, rocky slopes, areas of dense trees, and exposure to adverse weather.  This work is physically demanding and requires long hours of off-trail hiking while conducting surveys.  Goshawk surveys will be conducted at all hours of day, and Spotted Owl surveys will be conducted at all hours of night.  Overnight camping may be required in some cases.

Travel to survey sites may require driving on narrow, winding, dirt roads for distances up to 20 miles.  While driving to and from survey sites, frequent encounters with vehicles, hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders should be expected on backcountry roads.  Radio communication will be necessary for emergencies and for communication with the Project Manager.

Timeline: 18 May – 21 August 2015 (14 weeks), 40 hours per week

Compensation:  

• $15.00/hour
• $15 field per diem (for up to 10 nights camping)
• Housing stipend

Location: Field work will be conducted in backcountry regions of the east Tahoe Basin, NV and adjacent areas of the Carson Range. Many recreational opportunities are available in the region, which is considered by many as among the most scenic in the country. Base of operations: Reno, NV.

Qualifications:

Technical requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field;

• Experience in conducting surveys for Northern Goshawks, including nest monitoring and knowledge of vocalizations, signs, and behavior (required);

• Previous field experience that included:

-adhering to field data collection protocols, and

-accurately collecting, recording and managing field data;

• Experience in habitat evaluation and collection of vegetation data preferred;
• Ability to use:

-standard methods and equipment for habitat characterization,

-a GPS unit for navigation and data collection, and

-GIS technology for mapping and other uses;

• Familiarity with raptor species of the Tahoe Basin and their habitat preferred; and
• Familiarity with and/or interest in forest ecology and avian ecology and conservation biology.

Additional requirements:

• Possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record;
• Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle on unpaved roads that can be steep and rutted;
• Experience in supporting field assistants during training and field work;
• Ability to work productively, consistently and cooperatively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals;
• Possess strong organizational skills;
• Ability to work in variable weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, carry upwards of 20 pounds in a backpack, and otherwise maintain good physical condition;
• Willingness and ability to camp in remote areas;
• Familiarity with backcountry, low-impact principles preferred; and
• Pass National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and federal criminal background checks.

How to Apply: Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, their résumé, and a list of three professional references to Amy Gladding, Great Basin Institute Human Resources Coordinator, at agladding@thegreatbasininstitute.org. Please include where you found this position posted. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The Great Basin Institute conforms to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit Retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.